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Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Brake Pads on Your Mitsubishi Lancer Sedan
Maintaining your Mitsubishi Lancer’s brake system is crucial for your safety and the vehicle’s performance. Replacing brake pads is a common maintenance task that you can do yourself with some basic tools and careful attention.
What You'll Need
- New brake pads compatible with your Mitsubishi Lancer
- Lug wrench
- Jack and jack stands
- Socket set or wrench
- C-clamp or brake caliper tool
- Brake cleaner
- Gloves and safety glasses
Step-by-Step Brake Pad Replacement
- Prepare the Vehicle: Park on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you’ll replace the pads.
- Lift the Vehicle: Use a jack to lift the car and secure it with jack stands for safety.
- Remove the Wheel: Take off the lug nuts completely and remove the wheel to access the brake assembly.
- Access the Brake Pads: Locate the brake caliper and remove the bolts holding it in place. Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor and support it so it doesn’t hang by the brake line.
- Remove Old Pads: Take out the worn brake pads from the caliper bracket.
- Compress the Caliper Piston: Use a C-clamp or brake caliper tool to gently push the piston back into the caliper housing to make room for new pads.
- Install New Brake Pads: Place the new pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring they sit securely.
- Reassemble: Reinstall the caliper over the rotor and tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque.
- Reattach the Wheel: Put the wheel back on, screw the lug nuts by hand, lower the vehicle, then tighten the lug nuts completely in a star pattern.
- Test Your Brakes: Before driving, press the brake pedal several times to ensure the pads seat properly and the brakes respond correctly.
Regularly inspecting and replacing your Mitsubishi Lancer’s brake pads can help you avoid costly repairs and keep you safe on the road. If you’re unsure about any step, consult a professional mechanic.